You may love the chicken from Popeyes, but the Southern fast-food chain also has an impressive fan base for its popular Cajun-style turkey. Instead of defrosting, stuffing, and trying to get the juiciest Thanksgiving bird, customers can turn to Popeyes for the main attraction. The restaurant will once again offer its pre-seasoned, pre-cooked turkey this Thanksgiving so you can skip the stress of having too much holiday food prep.
“Pre-seasoned and pre-cooked to perfection, the Popeyes Cajun-Style Turkey arrives frozen and ready to simply thaw, heat, and serve,” a Popeyes blog post states. “Each turkey is infused with the signature Cajun spices that make Popeyes famous, bringing just the right kick to your holiday table.”
Credit:
Courtesy of Popeyes
Known for its spicy New Orleans–style fried chicken, the Southern chicken chain began offering fully cooked turkeys nationwide in 2001. Cajun fried turkeys have been offered in New Orleans restaurants since the 1980s, and in 1997, Chef Billy Jacob came up with the current recipe.
Customers can pre-order a Cajun-style turkey online or through the app starting October 13 for in-store pickup in most restaurants starting at $54.99. Just choose an available pick-up date at your local store. Or choose to have it delivered right to your door within about three days for most areas for $99. The turkeys are only available while supplies last, so order early.
The 11- to 13-pound turkeys feed eight to 12 guests and come sealed in plastic for easy thawing. Preparing the frozen turkey is easier than brining and roasting your own, just make sure to take thawing time into consideration for the big meal. According to Popeyes, you can thaw the turkey for 72 hours in the refrigerator, then warm it in the oven for two hours, let it stand for 20 minutes, and serve. You can store any leftovers for up to three days at 40ºF, but the turkey should not be refrozen.
Of course, the cooked turkey is a convenient hack when you’re expecting a full house and have other dishes to prep, but you can also order a whole Thanksgiving meal. Add a separate order for sides like Popeyes’ famous biscuits, macaroni and cheese, or mashed potatoes with Cajun gravy.
If you’re a Rewards customer, make sure to pre-order a turkey through your Rewards account to earn 10 points for every dollar spent. You can also track and manage your order through the account. Orders made in person or placed for delivery aren’t eligible for points.